Keep me as the apple of your eye;
    hide me in the shadow of your wings…

Psalm 17:8 (NIV)

d05433756c8dff0c0f048d1321a7e727

 

One of the traditions we have started with the grandgirlies is a special trip with Nana and Papa for their tenth birthday.

Kate started it off with an all-western, rodeo watchin’, horseback ridin’ time in Tucson. Tori, our beach girl, spent her time in San Diego, enjoying Sea World and the Zoo, plus water time in the pool and ocean. Allie left Saturday after a week of fun in the very HOT sun of Arizona. And part of the fun is to fly alone.

As I was planning her trip, she informed me that she wanted a daily schedule of the activities so that she could check them off at the end of the day. She also wanted it all kept as a surprise.

It was a great week, full of mini-golf, swimming, shopping, movies, golf cart rides, and lots of eating out. The weather hampered a bit but watching a monsoon blow in and sound its fury with thunder, lightening, and rain was a thrill to watch.

She has recently been given the privilege of texting family. I love hearing my phone ding and know it’s a message from her. After she left, I sent her a text telling her how special she was to me and how much I enjoyed our time together.

Allie: You are special to me too.

Do you think there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for that child?

God, our Heavenly Father, says the same thing about each of us. We are the apple of His eye and He is there to protect us under the shadow of His almighty wings. Just as Allie’s response melts my heart, so our Father loves to hear us whisper words of love and thanksgiving to Him during the day.

As much as I love Allie, I know my Father loves me even more. He plans good gifts for me, takes me on adventures, picks me up when I stumble, and lavishes me with His love. And right now, He is preparing a future home for me.

He may not send me a text, but His Word has a message for me each day.

Ding, ding.